Grand parade showcases diverse cultures of ASEAN countries

MANILA, Aug. 8 — A grand parade was held Tuesday afternoon along Roxas Boulevard to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The activity was highlighted by regional dances which showcased the various cultures of the ASEAN member countries. Marching bands also participated to add fanfare to the event.

Furthermore, a giant ASEAN float was paraded depicting the national costumes of the ASEAN countries to represent unity in the regional grouping despite diverse cultures and languages.

More than 500 contingents from the Department of Education (DepEd) participated in the parade which started from Rizal Park to the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex.

The parade was followed by a cultural show at the CCP which featured traditional and contemporary performances in the evening.

Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA) Musical Director Maribel Legarda stated in a press briefing Monday that the performances aim to showcase the beauty of arts in the ASEAN region.

“We are trying to put up a show where we celebrate all the aspects of the art,” according to Legarda.

A ceremonial landmark lighting of lanterns in the capitals of ASEAN member states and capital cities of the Philippines was also part of commemorative activities for the anniversary.

Around 17 cities and municipalities across the country participated in simultaneous celebrations.

A concert featuring 10 pop music singers representing the ASEAN countries led by Christian Bautista of the Philippines was also held at the Bonifacio Global City Amphitheater in Taguig City.

Some of the local artists who will join in the ongoing concert are Franco, 6 Cycle Mind, Itchyworms, Up Dharma Down and will be hosted by Venus Raj. Shuttle vans will be available to people who are interested to watch the BGC concert from the CCP grounds. Aerol John Pateña /PNA-northboundasia.com